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Israel Adesanya

Israel Adesanya is a Nigerian-New Zealand mixed martial artist and former kickboxer and boxer.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Israel Adesanya is a Nigerian-New Zealand mixed martial artist and former kickboxer and boxer. He is a former two-time UFC Middleweight Champion and has competed in the UFC middleweight division since 2018. He is known by the nickname "The Last Stylebender."

Early life and background

Adesanya was born in Lagos, Nigeria, on 22 July 1989 and later moved to New Zealand. His early combat sports background included kickboxing before he transitioned to mixed martial arts.

Mixed martial arts career

He joined the UFC in 2018 and became one of the division's leading middleweights. He has held the UFC middleweight title twice and is widely identified with a striking-heavy style.

Kickboxing and boxing career

Before competing in MMA, Adesanya built a professional record in kickboxing and also fought professionally in boxing. Sources describe him as a former kickboxer and boxer with extensive striking experience.

Fighting style and reputation

Adesanya is known as "The Last Stylebender," a nickname linked to the animated series Avatar. He fights from a switch stance and is recognized for technical striking and movement.

Key facts

  • Adesanya was born in Nigeria and later became associated with New Zealand.
  • He is a former two-time UFC Middleweight Champion.
  • He made his professional MMA debut in 2012.
  • He is known for his striking background and switch stance.
  • Before MMA, he competed professionally in kickboxing and boxing.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Israel Adesanya?
Israel Adesanya is a Nigerian-New Zealand mixed martial artist and former kickboxer and boxer best known for competing in the UFC middleweight division.
What is Israel Adesanya's nickname?
His nickname is "The Last Stylebender."
What title has Israel Adesanya held?
He is a former two-time UFC Middleweight Champion.
Where was Israel Adesanya born?
He was born in Lagos, Nigeria.
What team does Israel Adesanya represent?
He is associated with City Kickboxing.
What is Israel Adesanya's fighting stance?
He uses a switch stance.

References

  1. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/mma/fighter/_/id/4285679/israel-adesanya
    Supports: Birthdate, nationality, division, height/weight, team, nickname, stance, and current MMA record.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel_Adesanya
    Supports: Full name, birth date, birthplace, nationality, career background, UFC middleweight championship history, and general biography.
  3. UFC — https://www.ufc.com/athlete/israel-adesanya
    Supports: Professional MMA debut year, knockout statistics, prior kickboxing and boxing records, nickname origin, and championship history.
  4. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/mma/fighter/bio/_/id/4285679/israel-adesanya
    Supports: Biography details including division, birthdate, team, nickname, and stance.
  5. UFC Stats — http://ufcstats.com/fighter-details/1338e2c7480bdf9e
    Supports: Official MMA record, height, weight, reach, stance, and date of birth.